While many men can wire a ceiling fixture, carve a turkey, and quote sports statistics from decades ago, most aren’t exactly sure what the prostate is or what it does. But they should.

One of the most serious health risks men face today is prostate cancer — the most common type of cancer found in American men, other than skin cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer death in men. (Lung cancer is the first.) And more than 30 million men suffer from prostate conditions such as prostatitis and BPH that negatively affect their quality of life.

That’s why in support of National Prostate Health Month in September, Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center and Dr. Kenneth Meacham of Urology Associates of North Central Arkansas are partnering to offer a free prostate screening.

The prostate, a walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder in men, is important to bladder control and normal sexual functioning — important issues to most men.

When it comes to prostate cancer, there’s a lot of confusion about how to prevent it, find it early, and the best way — or even whether — to treat it. Dr. Meacham will offer research-based information on prostate issues, risk factors, and current screening recommendations to help men separate fact from fiction.

Free prostate screenings

Free prostate screenings for men ages 40 to 75 may be scheduled from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday at Urology Associates of North Central Arkansas in Russellville. The screening includes a blood draw and exam. Appointments are recommended and can be made at 968-2841, ext. 0. Screenings are offered in partnership with the Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation.

It’s a man thing

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, men may be catching up to women in lifespan. But while the life-expectancy gap between men and women has shrunk to its narrowest since 1946, men still need to pay more attention to their health.

Compared to women, men are more likely to: smoke and drink, and generally lead less healthy lifestyles; put off routine checkups and even ignore symptoms of a health problem; and join in fearless, risky and dangerous behaviors.

The good news is that many of the diseases and health conditions that men face can be prevented or successfully treated if they are found early. Just like automobiles, men’s bodies need regular check-ups and maintenance to avoid serious breakdowns in the future.

The latest American Cancer Society estimates for prostate cancer in the United States are for 2012:

• 241,740 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed.

• 28,170 men will die of prostate cancer.

• 1 man in 6 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.

• 1 man in 36 will die of prostate cancer.

Real men are in the know

The good news is that more than 2 million men in the U.S. who have had prostate cancer at some point are still alive today. The death rate for prostate cancer is going down, and the disease is being found earlier, too. Part of the reason for today’s significant decrease in the death rate from prostate cancer is that more men than ever have gotten serious about regular screenings.

Remember, real men learn how to prevent and control prostate issues. Whether it’s time for a simple blood test or an exam, you’re not just doing it for yourself. You’re doing it for your family and loved ones.

The single most important way to take care of yourself and those you love is to actively take part in your health care. Join Saint Mary’s and Dr. Kenneth Meacham in September and learn the right steps to managing your prostate health.